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  4. Effectiveness and feasibility of the workout on wheels internet intervention (WOWii) for individuals with spinal cord injury: a randomized controlled trial

Effectiveness and feasibility of the workout on wheels internet intervention (WOWii) for individuals with spinal cord injury: a randomized controlled trial

Spinal Cord, 2022 · DOI: 10.1038/s41393-022-00787-w · Published: April 26, 2022

Spinal Cord InjuryRehabilitationTelehealth & Digital Health

Simple Explanation

This study examined if a 16-week online exercise program called Workout On Wheels internet intervention (WOWii) could help people with spinal cord injury (SCI) increase their physical activity. The program included a website with exercise information, weekly virtual group meetings, and a starter package of exercise equipment. The researchers measured participants' physical activity levels, fitness, and their beliefs about exercise before, during, and after the program.

Study Duration
26 Months
Participants
168 middle-aged men (57%) and women (43%) with spinal cord injury
Evidence Level
Level 1: Randomized-controlled trial (RCT)

Key Findings

  • 1
    The online exercise program helped participants engage in more vigorous physical activity and improved their goal-directed thinking.
  • 2
    Participants reported significant improvements in exercise self-efficacy and nutrition self-efficacy.
  • 3
    Participants spent progressively more time in aerobic exercise over the program weeks, and achieved 150 min of aerobic activity by week 9, a level that was maintained over subsequent weeks.

Research Summary

This study evaluated the effectiveness and feasibility of the Workout On Wheels internet intervention (WOWii), a 16-week online program, for increasing physical activity among individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). The results indicated that WOWii helped participants increase vigorous physical activity and improve goal-directed thinking. Participants also showed improvements in exercise and nutrition self-efficacy. The study demonstrated that a virtually-delivered program offers a promising approach to increase exercise among those with SCI and may help participants perceive fewer motivational barriers and greater self-efficacy.

Practical Implications

Accessibility

The WOWii program can be delivered virtually, reducing transportation barriers and increasing access to exercise for individuals with SCI.

Social Support

Group-based virtual sessions provide a platform for professional and peer support, which can enhance program engagement and exercise participation.

Program Design

Pairing goal setting, self-monitoring, and exercise equipment with online content and virtual sessions can promote high program engagement and exercise participation.

Study Limitations

  • 1
    Attrition was higher in the IMM (24%) than the WLC group (10%) over the 16-week trial
  • 2
    Difficulties with Polar monitors and API site, which hampered the ability to obtaining all exercise session data.
  • 3
    Objective exercise monitoring was only conducted among IMM and thus we do not have objective exercise data from the WLC participants

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